Grading the Bears: Week 10

Game ball

Tons of options in this category, but the pick here is Julius Peppers, perhaps the most unsung superstar in Chicago. Peppers got things going Sunday with a strip of Calvin Johnson, which was recovered by Brian Urlacher. He also had a key sack of Matthew Stafford just when the Lions looked to be challenging.

Offense

Quarterback 2 balls

Jay Cutler probably deserved 5 balls just for surviving the Lions questionable tactics, including Ndamukong Suh trying to rip his head off and Nick Fairley pile-driving him to the turf. Cutler was just 9 for 19 with 0 TDs, but it didn’t matter in this one.

Running backs 2 balls

On a day that looked perfect for a dominant running game, the Bears didn’t have theirs going. Matt Forte rushed for a touchdown, but that was in the midst of a 12 rushes for 20 yards stretch. A 40-yard run helped up his total rushing yards on the ground to 64.

Receivers 2 balls

Earl Bennett can wear those orange shoes any time. The guy continued his stellar play with a team-leading 6 catches for 81 yards. No one else had more than 1 catch. Oh, and Roy Williams dropped his best chance, looked for a flag, and then disappeared.

Offensive line 3 balls

The line played well enough to win, allowing only a pair of sacks against a tough pass rushing front. There is cause for concern, though, Chris Williams left the game with an injured wrist and will be out indefinitely.

Defense

Defensive line 3 balls

Julius Peppers and Anthony Adams each registered a sack and the line in general provided enough pressure on Stafford (4 interceptions). Peppers also forced a fumble and finished with 3 tackles.

Linebackers 4 balls

Brian Urlacher continued to be the right guy in the right place with a fumble recovery and a return, and Lance Briggs was all over the place with 9 tackles, tying with Urlacher for second best on the day.

Secondary 5 balls

Who didn’t register an interception in this one? Charles Tillman not only kept Megatron in check all day, but also added a Pick 6, as did safety Major Wright. Tim Jennings and Corey Graham also registered INTs on a special afternoon for the Bears secondary.

Special teams 5 balls

Devin Hester did it again, and then he almost did it again! Amazing. His 82-yard punt return ignited Soldier Field and was a nail in the Lions’ coffin. Robbie Gould was a touchback machine, and was 3 for 4 on FGs, including a 50-yarder.

Coaching 4 balls

Aside for a couple of obtuse play calls on offense, the coaching staff had the Bears in peak form for Sunday’s rematch, especially on defense and special teams. Lovie Smith certainly has people believing.